CAPTION: Karen Griffiths has been licensed for ministry in Plymouth
“A day of complete joy” Karen’s story of becoming a Licensed Lay Minister
Karen Griffiths, from Plymouth, is one of Devon’s newest Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) after being licensed alongside eight other LLMs by the Bishop of Plymouth at Exeter Cathedral on Saturday 5 October.
Here she describes what the licensing service was like and what her new role means to her:
“What a day. Overwhelming, exhausting, but absolutely one of the best days of my life. The occasion was indeed special in itself, but added to this was the joy of being among family and friends – in fact the whole Cathedral was a bubble of kindness, compassion and joy.
The Bishop of Plymouth gives the new LLMs their licenses
“I am extremely grateful for the care and consideration given by everyone to ensure that, even though I have mobility issues, I could still fully participate in the service. A wheelchair was provided and everyone was so kind to me – making sure I was OK throughout the day.
“It is hard to put into words how I felt in terms of the formal procedure of being admitted as a Licensed Lay Minister – the final formality after our studies and formation. I had expected excitement and fear, but no, it was a quiet, and calm joy. God was not in the wind, nor the earthquake, or the fire, but rather a ‘gentle whisper’ (1 Kings 19:11–13). I feel changed – there has definitely been a profound shift in me. A good shift.
“The LLM training (at the South West Ministry Training Course), was very challenging, but the support of the tutors was amazing. I feel well prepared for my new role – albeit somewhat nervous!
“Looking to the future, I want to continue to expand Quiet Spaces – ecumenical contemplative mornings set up by the Rev’d Judy Greenfield and myself in Plymouth. Through the LLM training course I have developed a love of theology, and am continuing my studies as an independent student which hopefully will give me more skills to teach. I am hoping these activities will also include an online element. Then there is the privilege of preaching and leading worship in my church. Busy time ahead!
The new LLMs celebrating after the service
“Finally, back to the day itself, I am so grateful to all involved. Such a special, unforgettable day – a day of complete joy. And I am determined to stay in my bubble of calm joy for the long term!”
Karen has been licensed to serve as an LLM in the Bickleigh (Roborough) and Shaugh Prior Mission Community.
